Nishioka to Triple-A

The Minnesota Twins assigned Tsuyoshi Nishioka to Triple-A Rochester on Monday. The Twins hope the struggling infielder can find a groove, build some confidence and relax a little in the minor leagues.

Nishioka was hitting .240 in nine games this spring. After a difficult first season with the Twins, Nishioka has looked no more comfortable at the plate or in the field this spring training season.

Nishioka was a five-time All-Star, a batting champion and Gold Glove winner in Japan.

The move will shore up Luke Hughes' shot to make the team.